When the film “Rudy” came out in 1993, it was mostly overlooked by film buffs and casual fans. Critics said it was okay at best, and never gave it a second look. However, as the years went by, this little football movie that could somehow gained a cult following. After seeing it, I have to agree, this biopic of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, directed by David Anspaugh, may quite possibly be the greatest football movie ever made.
The strength of “Rudy” lies in how relatable the whole thing is. Rudy was just a kid who dreamed of bigger things, as we all do. And just like most of us, he had to endure heartbreak and tragedy. But what made his journey special was that he never gave up, even when everyone told him to. In instances where ordinary folk like you and me would turn around and say “only a fool would go on,” Rudy didn’t. He fought tooth and nail against the world to get to where he wanted to go.
The movie didn’t win any big awards, but you could mention it in the same breath as some of the all-time sports movie greats such as “Rocky” and “Raging Bull.”
I highly recommend this movie if you haven’t seen it yet. Just prepare yourself for inspiration unlike any other once the movie’s done.
Michael Volitich is a Creative Writing student, sports writer and fanatic, lit geek, film buff, and occasional traveler. He is currently enrolled at the University of Florida. For similar updates, click here.
Michael Volitich 